Lamine Yamal’s Ankle Injury Brings a Needed Break for Barcelona’s Rising Star

  • Barcelona's 17-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal is sidelined indefinitely due to a nagging ankle injury.
  • While the injury is an unfortunate setback for the rising star, it also means some extra rest for Yamal, who has played in nearly every match so far this season.
FK Crvena Zvezda v FC Barcelona - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4
FK Crvena Zvezda v FC Barcelona - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 | Nikola Krstic/MB Media/GettyImages

Lamine Yamal will enjoy a needed break as he recovers from injury

Barcelona’s young sensation, Lamine Yamal, will miss the next two weeks following an ankle injury that raised concerns among fans and staff alike. The 17-year-old has been a standout figure for both club and country this season, logging extensive minutes in a demanding early-season schedule. Yet, this intense pace has seemingly caught up to him, leading to an unfortunate but perhaps beneficial pause for recovery.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed Yamal’s absence ahead of their weekend clash against Real Sociedad, acknowledging that his staff had pushed hard to make him available. “We tried until the end with Lamine,” Flick said. 

"We have to take care of him; he has problems with his ankle.”"
Hansi Flick

This injury, while disappointing, could serve as a necessary intervention to manage Yamal’s physical demands as he navigates the rigors of elite-level football at such a young age.

Fortunately for Barcelona, Yamal’s injury comes with some reassurance. Medical evaluations have confirmed no structural damage, indicating he should return relatively quickly. The timing also aligns with the season’s third international break, creating a natural window for recovery without significant disruption to Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures. 

With their next match not until November 23 against Celta Vigo, the club’s medical staff has the opportunity to establish a controlled rehabilitation plan, aiming to bring Yamal back to full strength for the demanding period ahead.

Yamal’s health has been a topic of discussion among Culers, as his youthful energy and technical skill have made him a linchpin in Barcelona’s attack. Yet this injury also serves as a reminder of the need for careful management, especially given the physical toll of competing at both the domestic and international levels. 

As Barcelona heads into the break, both fans and staff alike will be eager to see their young star return fully fit, and ready to continue his breakout season.